FUNDRAISING is continuing for a five-year-old York schoolboy with a rare and serious medical condition.

Acomb Primary School pupil William Rhodes has had 85 blood transfusions and bravely undergoes daily medical treatments for Diamond Blackfan Anaemia (DBA) – a rare condition which means he may become very seriously ill if he does not find a match for a bone marrow transplant before his teenage years.

His best chance would be if his parents Caroline, 36, and Ben Rhodes, 31, had genetic screening and IVF to have a tissue-matched baby – which despite two attempts has not yet been successful.

The family was delighted to welcome a baby daughter Grace in April. Tests have confirmed she has not inherited the same condition, however Grace is not a match for William, so the couple will continue with IVF as soon as is possible.

Caroline said: "Grace is doing well. William is really good with her, he loves her and helps out with her a lot.

"We don't really promote that we need the help but there may come a time that we may need to fundraise more. The fact people are doing it now really helps. It's so kind of people to offer and we are really grateful. It's kind and thoughtful people still think of him."

Upcoming fundraising for the family will also see York cafe and bistro True Colour in Clarence Street hold a fundraising day on July 26, where all profits from food and drinks will be donated to William.

Crossfit Jorvik are also helping to raise money for William.

If Ben and Caroline are able to have a baby which is a match for William, cells from the baby’s umbilical cord could be used to allow a potentially life-saving bone marrow transplant.

His parents have been told the chances of them having a healthy baby which is also a match for William are slim due to his genetic make-up but they say they remain hopeful and will continue to try.

Over the last few years well-wishers in the city and further afield have raised many thousands of pounds to allow the treatment for William.

- True Colour cafe and bistro in Clarence Street will hold a full day of fundraising on Saturday, July 26, with proceeds from food and drinks going towards William's fund.

Owner Joseph Eastwood, who has held fundraisers for William before, said: "I keep seeing how they're doing on Facebook and I know it can get quiet for them sometimes. I want to keep doing whatever I can."

Head along to the licensed event on the day for lunch or dinner or book by calling 01904 848191.